Fun and flexible lofts in the heart of Old Town

Cobbler Square, 1350 N Wells St, is one of the signature adaptive reuse projects in Chicago — or anywhere in the US. In the mid-80s architect Ken Schroeder transformed 30 ramshackle buildings used as a Dr Scholl’s factory into 295 loft apartments in a colorful, visually arresting set of seven structures enclosing landscaped courtyards.

In 2009 Village Green oversaw a complete renovation of the complex. Common areas were upgraded and expanded. The apartments received new kitchens and baths while retaining the timber, exposed brick and ductwork, large windows and flexible, open spaces that define the loft aesthetic.

Cobbler Square spurred the transformation of Old Town‘s Wells Street into one of Chicago’s most attractive pedestrian venues. The street has a lively mix of shops, restaurants, theater and nightlife — and a few remnants of the funky 60s, when the street was a tourist mecca.